Google Glass Adds Voice Commands, Basic Web Browser

The latest software update for Google Glass is rolling out to owners this week, and brings a few very welcome features that expand the device’s capabilities.

Basic Web Browsing

First up is what sounds like a very basic web browsing experience that’s available after doing a search. As I pointed out in my How Search Works on Google Glass article in May, Glass hasn’t had any web browsing — all search results (and other web information) shows up as “cards” in the Glass timeline.

The update brings a “view website” option to Glass search results, and once on a web page, users can scroll down, zoom in and click — and the Glass announcement explains a way to “pan,” too. (I don’t have the software update yet and I’m having trouble imagining what they’re describing there.)

More Voice Commands

Glass’ hands-free capabilities are being expanded. Users will be able to read and reply to text messages, answer incoming phone calls and share photos by speaking commands.

None of those, though, affect the Glass home screen. The primary seven “ok, Glass” voice commands on the home screen appear to be unchanging.

About The Author

Matt McGee is the Editor-In-Chief of Marketing Land and Search Engine Land. His news career includes time spent in TV, radio, and print journalism. After leaving traditional media in the mid-1990s, he began developing and marketing websites and continued to provide consulting services for more than 15 years. His SEO and social media clients ranged from mom-and-pop small businesses to one of the Top 5 online retailers. Matt is a longtime speaker at marketing events around the U.S., including keynote and panelist roles. He can be found on Twitter at @MattMcGee. You can read Matt's disclosures on his personal blog. You can reach Matt via email using our Contact page.